Plot Summary

The Kitchen God's Wife

Amy Tan
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The Kitchen God's Wife

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1991

Book Brief

Amy Tan

The Kitchen God's Wife

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1991
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Shanghai, China • 1920s-1940s

Publication Year

1991

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

810L

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Super Short Summary

The Kitchen God's Wife by Amy Tan delves into the complex relationship between Chinese-American woman Pearl and her mother, Winnie Louie. Pearl's visit to San Francisco for family events reveals hidden truths as Aunt Helen urges Pearl to share her multiple sclerosis diagnosis with Winnie. In turn, Winnie recounts her past of hardship, an abusive marriage, and her eventual escape, leading Pearl to a deeper understanding of her mother, and fostering a renewed bond between them. The novel features themes of domestic violence and trauma.

Emotional

Mysterious

Contemplative

Bittersweet

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

4.2

88,467 ratings

76%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Amy Tan's The Kitchen God's Wife explores complex mother-daughter relationships and immigrant experiences with rich, evocative storytelling. Praised for its emotional depth and cultural insights, the novel captivates readers, though some find its pacing uneven. Overall, Tan's nuanced characters and vivid narrative make it a powerful and meaningful read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Kitchen God's Wife?

Readers who appreciate The Joy Luck Club or Pachinko will enjoy The Kitchen God's Wife by Amy Tan. This novel appeals particularly to those fascinated by intergenerational family dynamics, Chinese-American culture, and intricate, heartfelt storytelling. Fans of complex character studies and poignant narratives will find this work compelling.

4.2

88,467 ratings

76%

Loved it

20%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Shanghai, China • 1920s-1940s

Publication Year

1991

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

810L

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